VNA helps Sandy victims

Rob Wheary/Staff Photo
Staff members and managers of VNA Health System, Shamokin, stand near a truck filled with supplies being driven to New York Tuesday to help homebound patients served by the Visiting Nurse Service of New York who have been affected by Superstorm Sandy.

SHAMOKIN - VNA Health System, out of its Shamokin office, recently held a blanket and supply campaign to distribute to homebound patients in New York City affected by Superstorm Sandy.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the people in New York and New Jersey who are suffering and struggling with the devastation wrought by Hurricane Sandy," said Joseph L. Scopelliti, Jr., president/CEO of VNA Health System. "We see the physical damage and emotional toll as reported in the news, and recognize the reality is far worse than can be adequately portrayed. It is for this reason that VNA Health System decided to conduct a blanket and supply campaign for those homebound patients serviced by the Visiting Nurse Service of New York."

In response to VNA Health System's support, Mary Ann Christopher, president/CEO of the Visiting Nurse Service of New York said, "Your outstretched hand across state geographies reminds me of how powerful the collective missions of VNAs are. Please extend my gratitude to your staff and community. We already feel sustained by the warmth of your collegiality."

VNA received an overwhelming response from the community and the staff of VNA, including a large donation made by "Aaron's Sales and Lease Company" based in Honesdale. On Tuesday, VNA Health System staff loaded a truck full of donations that was being delivered to the Visiting Nurse Services in New York City.

VNA will continue collecting blankets between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Friday at the VNA office located at 21 W. Independence St., Shamokin.

"We plan to send another truck load full of donations to the Visiting Nurse Service of New York early next week," Scopelliti noted.

For more information or questions, contact VNA Health System at 648-8989.

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